CHAPADA. – Nullus prelature of S. Anna, suffragan of Cuyabá in the State of Matto Grosso, Brazil. It was created on 13 July 1940 by the bull Quo Christi fidelium.
In addition to the mother church of S. Anna, there are 3 other chapels. Over an area of approximately 140,000 sq. km., the population numbers approximately 40,000 inhabitants, consisting of a stable population of Indians and temporary immigrants from every State of Brazil, owing to the rich diamond-bearing region.
The prelature is entrusted to the Franciscan Fathers. The Franciscan Sisters of Ausobie direct the educational institute of S. Giuseppe, which also includes a free primary school.
BIBL.: J. B. Lehmann, O Brasil Catolico, 1947, Juiz de Fora 1947, pp. 486–87. Enrico Josi